Needle tip for biopsy device

ABSTRACT

A biopsy device includes a body portion, a tip, at least one blade, and a cutter. The cannula defines at least one lumen. The cannula has a transverse aperture configured to receive tissue. The tip is located at the distal end of the cannula, and may include at least two concave surfaces. The blade extends longitudinally from the tip. A second blade may also extend longitudinally from the tip. Blades may be axially staggered relative to the cannula. Blades may also have lengths that differ from one another. In addition, a blade may have a pointed distal end, or may have a curved distal edge. The configuration of the blade and tip may provide reduced force to penetrate tissue. The blade and tip may produce a cut length that is greater than or equal to the length of the outer perimeter of the cannula.

BACKGROUND

Biopsy samples have been obtained in a variety of ways in variousmedical procedures using a variety of devices. Biopsy devices may beused under stereotactic guidance, ultrasound guidance, MRI guidance, orotherwise. Merely exemplary biopsy devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,526,822, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Automated Biopsy andCollection of Soft Tissue,” issued Jun. 18, 1996; U.S. Pat. No.6,086,544, entitled “Control Apparatus for an Automated Surgical BiopsyDevice,” issued Jul. 11, 2000; U.S. Pub. No. 2003/0109803, entitled “MRICompatible Surgical Biopsy Device,” published Jun. 12, 2003; U.S. Pub.No. 2007/0118048, entitled “Remote Thumbwheel for a Surgical BiopsyDevice,” published May 24, 2007; U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 60/869,736, entitled “Biopsy System,” filed Dec. 13, 2006; U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/874,792, entitled “BiopsySample Storage,” filed Dec. 13, 2006; and U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 11/942,785, entitled “Revolving Tissue SampleHolder for Biopsy Device,” filed Nov. 21, 2007. The disclosure of eachof the above-cited U.S. patents, U.S. patent application Publications,U.S. Provisional patent applications, and U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication is incorporated by reference herein.

In some settings, including some of those where a biopsy device tipneeds to penetrate the tissue of a patient, some users of biopsy devicesmay prefer that the tip penetrate tissue with relatively little force.In other words, in some settings, a user may prefer a first biopsydevice over a second biopsy device due to the first biopsy devicerequiring less force for its tip to penetrate tissue than the forcerequired for the tip of the second biopsy device to penetrate tissue.This preference may be heightened when the tissue is relatively dense orunder other circumstances.

Some biopsy devices may have a needle portion that has a generallycircular cross-section, a generally ovular cross-section, a generallyelliptical cross-section, a “figure eight” type of cross section, orsome other cross-section. Such needle portions may have a predefinedouter perimeter about a longitudinal axis. In some settings, the ratioof the length of an incision in tissue to the length of the perimeter orcircumference of a biopsy device needle may be indicative of themagnitude of the force required to push the needle into dense tissue.For instance, in some settings, a relatively higher ratio of incisionlength to outer perimeter length may yield rises in tissue dilation hoopstresses that are more ideal (e.g., lower rates of rise) than rises intissue dilation hoop stresses obtained using a relatively lower ratio ofincision length to outer perimeter length (e.g., higher rates of rise).

While several systems and methods have been made and used for obtaininga biopsy sample, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors hasmade or used the invention described in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly pointout and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the presentinvention will be better understood from the following description ofcertain examples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, inwhich like reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary assembled biopsydevice, for use in a stereotactic setting;

FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view of the biopsy device of FIG. 1, with theprobe detached from the holster;

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary assembled biopsydevice, for use in an ultrasound setting;

FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of the biopsy device of FIG. 3, with theprobe detached from the holster;

FIG. 5 depicts a bottom perspective view of the probe portion of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 depicts a plan view of an exemplary needle tip;

FIG. 7 depicts an end view of the needle tip of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 depicts a plan view of another exemplary needle tip, at a firstangular orientation;

FIG. 9 depicts the needle tip of FIG. 8 at a second angular orientation,approximately 90 degrees from the first angular orientation;

FIG. 10 depicts the needle tip of FIG. 8 at a third angular orientation,approximately between the first and second angular orientations;

FIG. 11 depicts an end view of the needle tip of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 depicts a plan view of another exemplary needle tip;

FIG. 13 depicts an end view of the needle tip of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 depicts a plan view of another exemplary needle tip, at a firstangular orientation;

FIG. 15 depicts the needle tip of FIG. 14 at a second angularorientation, approximately 90 degrees from the first angularorientation;

FIG. 16 depicts the needle tip of FIG. 14 at a third angularorientation, approximately between the first and second angularorientations;

FIG. 17 depicts a plan view of another exemplary needle tip;

FIG. 18 depicts an end view of the needle tip of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 depicts a plan view of an exemplary modified cannula;

FIG. 20 depicts a plan view of another exemplary modified cannula;

FIG. 21 depicts a plan view of another exemplary modified cannula;

FIG. 22 depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of the holster of FIG.1 with an exemplary needle firing mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples of the invention shouldnot be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples,features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention willbecome apparent to those skilled in the art from the followingdescription, which is by way of illustration, one of the best modescontemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, theinvention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all withoutdeparting from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptionsshould be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

As shown in FIGS. 1-2, an exemplary biopsy device (100) comprises aprobe (102) and a holster (202). Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 2-3,another biopsy device (101) comprises a probe (103) and a holster (302).As will be described in greater detail below, each probe (102, 103) isseparable from its corresponding holster (202, 302). By way of exampleonly, probe (102, 103) may be provided as a disposable component, whileholster (202, 302) may be provided as a reusable component. Use of theterm “holster” herein should not be read as requiring any portion ofprobe (102, 103) to be inserted into any portion of holster (202, 302).Indeed, in some variations of biopsy devices (100, 101), probe (102,103) may simply sit on holster (202, 302). In some other variations, aportion of holster (202, 302) may be inserted into probe (102, 103).Furthermore, in some biopsy devices (100, 101), probe (102, 103) andholster (202, 302) may be of unitary or integral construction, such thatthe two components cannot be separated or are not identifiable asdifferent components. Still other suitable structural and functionalrelationships between probe (102, 103) and holster (202, 302) will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

I. Exemplary Probe for Stereotactic Use

As shown in FIGS. 1-2, probe (102) comprises a needle portion (10) and abody portion (112). Body portion (112) comprises a cover member (114)and a base member (not shown). A tissue sample holder (140) is removablysecured to base member (not shown), though tissue sample holder (140)may alternatively be secured to cover member (114) or some othercomponent. A pair of tubes (402, 404) are coupled with probe (102) forcommunication of fluids (e.g., vacuum, saline, atmospheric air,pressurized air, etc.).

A. Exemplary Needle

In the present example, needle portion (10) comprises an outer cannula(12) having a tissue piercing tip (14) and a transverse tissue receivingaperture (16) located proximally from the tissue piercing tip (14). Theinterior of outer cannula (12) of the present example defines a cannulalumen (not shown) and a vacuum lumen (not shown), with a wall (notshown) separating the cannula lumen from the vacuum lumen. A pluralityof external openings (22) are formed in outer cannula (12), and are influid communication with the vacuum lumen. Examples of openings that aresimilar to external openings (22) are disclosed in U.S. Pub. No.2007/0032742, entitled “Biopsy Device with Vacuum Assisted BleedingControl,” published Feb. 8, 2007, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. Of course, as with other componentsdescribed herein, external openings (22) are merely optional. The wallbetween the cannula lumen and the vacuum lumen also has a plurality ofopenings permitting fluid communication between the cannula lumen andthe vacuum lumen in the present example, though such openings are alsomerely optional.

B. Exemplary Tissue Piercing Tips

Tissue piercing tip (14) is configured to penetrate tissue withoutrequiring a high amount of force, and without requiring an opening to bepreformed in the tissue prior to insertion of tip (14). Of course, insome versions of use, an incision or other opening may be formed in thetissue prior to insertion of tip (14). While a variety of merelyexemplary tips (14) will be described in greater detail below, it shouldbe understood that a variety of other tips (14) may be used. In someversions, a tip (14) may provide penetration in fibrous breast tissuewith as little as approximately 20 newtons or approximately 4 pounds offorce, if not less force, through and past a depth of at least 6 mm intothe tissue. For instance, some versions of various tips (14) describedherein may require less than approximately 20 newtons or less thanapproximately 4 pounds of force to penetrate through 10 mm, 20 mm, 30mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, and/or greater depths of breast tissue. Inother words, a tip (14) may penetrate through to any or all such depthswithout ever requiring an insertion force that exceeds approximately 20newtons or approximately 4 pounds during such penetration. Some versionsof various tips (14) described herein may even require less thanapproximately 15 newtons or less than approximately 3 pounds of force topenetrate through 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, and/orgreater depths of breast tissue. Alternatively, tips (14) may requireany other suitable force to penetrate tissue to any desired depth.

In some versions, tip (14) comprises any one of the biopsy device needletips disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/917,375,filed May 11, 2007, entitled “Biopsy Device Needle Tip,” the disclosureof which is incorporated by reference herein. Several other merelyillustrative versions of tip (14) will be described in greater detailbelow, with reference to FIGS. 6-17, in which aperture (16) is notdepicted as part of needle portion (10), though needle portions (10)including any of the tips shown and described herein may have anaperture (16).

Another merely exemplary needle tip (500) that may be provided on aneedle portion (10) is shown in FIGS. 6-7. As shown, needle tip (500)comprises four concave faces (502) that converge at a point (506).Concave faces (502) are “hollow ground” in this example, and may beformed using a bullet grinder or using any other device or technique.Alternatively, concave faces (502) may have a taper ground profile orany other suitable profile if a hollow ground profile is not desired.

In some versions, the tip (500) is integral and unitary with cannula(12), such that tip (500) is formed as an integral and unitary portionof cannula (12). In still other versions, the tip (500) and cannula (12)are formed separately then joined together. In such versions, the tip(500) may be ground and otherwise formed before the tip (500) is securedto cannula (12). Alternatively, the tip (500) may be ground after thetip (500) is secured to cannula (12).

Faces (502) are adjoined at shared edges (504). In the present example,each edge (504) has a length that is greater than or equal to thedimension of the outer perimeter or circumference of cannula (12). Edges(504) are angularly offset from one another by approximately 90 degreesin this example. However, in other variations, edges (504) may have anyother suitable angular offset or offsets.

While needle tip (500) of this example comprises four faces (502), itwill be appreciated that any other suitable number of faces may be used.For instance, the number of faces (502) may range from two to five, orfall within any other suitable range. Furthermore, while faces (502) inthe present example all extend along the same axial length relative oneanother, it will be appreciated that faces (502) may extend alongdiffering axial lengths. For instance, in a version with four faces(502), two opposing faces (502) may extend along a shorter axial lengththan the other two other opposing faces (502). Still other ways in whichthe axial length of faces (502) or other properties of faces (502) maybe varied will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in viewof the teachings herein.

Another merely exemplary needle tip (550) that may be provided on aneedle portion (10) is shown in FIGS. 8-11. As shown, needle tip (550)comprises four concave faces (552) and two blades (554, 556). Each blade(554, 556) has two sharpened edges (558, 560). Concave faces (552) maybe formed and configured similar to faces (502) described above.Alternatively, faces (552) may have any other suitable configuration,including but not limited to substantially planar, convex, or any otherconfiguration.

As shown, blade (554) is “shorter” than blade (556). In other words,edges (560) of blade (556) converge at a point (562) that is distal toedges (558) of blade (554). Blades (554, 556) are thus axially staggeredalong the longitudinal axis defined by needle portion (10). In otherversions, however, blades (554, 556) are not axially staggered, andconverge at a common distal-most point. It will also be appreciated thatmore than two blades (554, 556) may be used. To the extent that morethan two blades (554, 556) are used, such blades may include two or moreaxially staggered blades and/or two or more blades that converge at acommon distal-most point, including combinations of converging andaxially staggered blades.

In addition, blades (554, 556) of the present example are positionedalong angular mid-regions of faces (552), such that blades (554, 556)bisect each face (552). In other versions, blades (554, 556) extendalong edges between faces (552). Other suitable relationships betweenblades (554, 556) and faces (552) will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Blades (554, 556) ofthe present example are positioned such that edges (558, 560) areangularly spaced approximately 90 degrees from one another. However, inother variations, edges (558, 560) may have any other suitable angularoffset or offsets.

In this example, each blade (554, 556) defines of angle of approximately45 degrees. Of course, any other angle or angles may be used. Inaddition, tip (550) of the present example is configured such that cutlength produced by tip (550) is greater than or equal to the perimeterlength or circumference of cannula (12). It will be appreciated,however, that any other suitable dimensions or relationships betweencannula (12) and tip (550) dimensions may be used.

In some versions, the blades (554, 556) are integral and unitary withneedle tip (550), such that blades (554, 556) are formed as an integraland unitary portion of cannula (12). In still other versions, the blades(554, 556) and needle tip (550) are formed separately then joinedtogether. For instance, the tip (550) may be ground and otherwise formedbefore the blades (554, 556) are secured tip (550). Similarly, blade(554) may be joined to tip (550) before blade (556) is joined to tip(550). Alternatively, blades (554, 556) may be joined together beforebeing collectively joined to tip (550). Blades (554, 556) may be securedto tip (550) using interlocking features, welding, adhesives, or anyother suitable structures or techniques. Slots (not shown) or otherfeatures may be provided in either or both of blades (554, 556) and/ortip (550) to accommodate their combination. Other ways in which tip(550) may be made will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart.

Another merely exemplary needle tip (600) that may be provided on aneedle portion (10) is shown in FIGS. 12-13. As shown, needle tip (600)comprises four concave faces (602) that converge at a point (606). Likefaces (502) described above, faces (602) may be “hollow ground,” and maybe formed using a bullet grinder or using any other device or technique.Alternatively, faces (602) may have a taper ground profile or any othersuitable profile if a hollow ground profile is not desired.

Faces (602) are adjoined at shared edges (604). In the present example,each edge (604) has a length that is greater than or equal to thedimension of the outer perimeter or circumference of cannula (12). Edges(604) are angularly offset from one another by approximately 90 degreesin this example. However, in other variations, edges (604) may have anyother suitable angular offset or offsets.

While needle tip (600) of this example comprises four faces (602), itwill be appreciated that any other suitable number of faces may be used.For instance, the number of faces (602) may range from two to five, orfall within any other suitable range. Furthermore, while faces (602) inthe present example all extend along the same axial length relative oneanother, it will be appreciated that faces (602) may extend alongdiffering axial lengths. For instance, in a version with four faces(602), two opposing faces (602) may extend along a shorter axial lengththan the other two other opposing faces (602). Still other ways in whichthe axial length of faces (602) or other properties of faces (602) maybe varied will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in viewof the teachings herein.

As is also shown in FIGS. 12-13, tip (600) is formed on a head (608),which has a greater diameter than that of cannula (12). The transition(610) from head (608) to cannula (12) is tapered in this example, thoughtransition (610) may be generally curved or have any other suitableconfiguration. The larger diameter of head (608) in this exampleprovides a cut length by tip (600) that is substantially larger than theperimeter or circumference of cannula (12), which may reduce the forcerequired for the tip (600) and cannula (12) to penetrate tissue.

In some versions, the tip (600) is integral and unitary with cannula(12), such that tip (600) is formed as an integral and unitary portionof cannula (12). In still other versions, the tip (600) and cannula (12)are formed separately then joined together. In such versions, the tip(600) may be ground and otherwise formed before the tip (600) is securedto cannula (12). Alternatively, the tip (600) may be ground after thetip (600) is secured to cannula (12). Furthermore, head (608) may beremovable from cannula (12), such that a variety of sizes of heads (608)and tips (600 may be secured to a cannula (12).

Another merely exemplary needle tip (650) that may be provided on aneedle portion (10) is shown in FIGS. 14-16. As shown, needle tip (650)comprises four concave faces (652) and two blades (654, 656). Each blade(654, 656) has two sharpened edges (658, 660). Concave faces (652) maybe formed and configured similar to faces (502, 552, 602) describedabove. Alternatively, faces (652) may have any other suitableconfiguration, including but not limited to substantially planar,convex, or any other configuration.

As shown, blade (654) is “shorter” than blade (656). In other words,edge (660) of blade (656) reaches a distal-most a point (662) that isdistal to the distal-most point (658) reached by blade (654). Blades(654, 656) are thus axially staggered along the longitudinal axisdefined by cannula (12). In other versions, however, blades (654, 656)are not axially staggered, and reach a common distal-most point. It willalso be appreciated that more than two blades (654, 656) may be used. Tothe extent that more than two blades (654, 656) are used, such bladesmay include two or more axially staggered blades and/or two or moreblades that reach a common distal-most point, including combinations ofconverging and axially staggered blades.

In addition, blades (654, 656) of the present example are positionedalong angular mid-regions of faces (652), such that blades (654, 656)bisect each face (652). In other versions, blades (654, 656) extendalong edges between faces (652). Other suitable relationships betweenblades (654, 656) and faces (652) will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Blades (654, 656) ofthe present example are positioned such that edges (658, 660) areangularly spaced approximately 90 degrees from one another. However, inother variations, edges (658, 660) may have any other suitable angularoffset or offsets.

In this example, each blade (654, 656) may define of arc having anysuitable radius of curvature. Having blades (654, 656) curved may reduceforce spikes and allow for a relatively smoother insertion of needleportion (10) and tip (650), compared to some other needles and tips. Inaddition, tip (650) of the present example is configured such that cutlength produced by tip (650) is greater than or equal to the perimeteror circumference of cannula (12). It will be appreciated, however, thatany other suitable dimensions or relationships between cannula (12) andtip (650) dimensions may be used.

In some versions, the blades (654, 656) are integral and unitary withneedle tip (650), such that blades (654, 656) are formed as an integraland unitary portion of cannula (12). In still other versions, the blades(654, 656) and needle tip (650) are formed separately then joinedtogether. For instance, the tip (650) may be ground and otherwise formedbefore the blades (654, 656) are secured tip (650). Similarly, blade(654) may be joined to tip (650) before blade (656) is joined to tip(650). Alternatively, blades (654, 656) may be joined together beforebeing collectively joined to tip (650). Blades (654, 656) may be securedto tip (650) using interlocking features, welding, adhesives, or anyother suitable structures or techniques. Slots (not shown) or otherfeatures may be provided in either or both of blades (654, 656) and/ortip (650) to accommodate their combination. Other ways in which tip(650) may be made will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart.

Another merely exemplary needle tip (700) that may be provided on aneedle portion (10) is shown in FIGS. 17-18. As shown, needle tip (700)comprises a conical distal region (702) and a blade (704). In otherversions, conical distal region (702) is instead a plurality of concavefaces (e.g., similar to faces (502) described above), a plurality ofplanar faces, is convexly rounded, or has any other suitableconfiguration.

Blade (704) in this example has two sharpened edges (708, 710). Edges(708, 710) converge at a distal-most point (712); and each edge (708,710) also terminates at a respective end point (714, 716). End points(714, 716) are separated by a distance that is greater than the diameterof cannula (12), giving tip (700) an arrowhead type of configuration. Insome versions, end points (714, 716) are separated by a distance that isgreater than or equal to the circumference or perimeter of cannula (12).The distance between end points (714, 716) may be regarded as defining awidth of blade (704). Blade (704) may have a width that is small enoughsuch that access to tumors is not impaired and such that the likelihoodof a pneumo-thorax condition is not increased; yet large enough toreduce the force needed for needle portion (10) to penetrate tissuerelative to a needle portion (10) that lacks a blade (704) having such awidth. A blade (704) width may be selected based on a variety ofconsiderations, including but not limited to tissue density. Blade (704)may also provide improved ultrasound visibility perpendicular to thelargest dimension of blade (704).

In some versions, an additional blade (not shown) may be provided on tip(700). Such a blade may have a similar length and/or position along thelongitudinal axis defined by needle portion (10) as blade (704).Alternatively, blade (704) and an additional blade may be longitudinallystaggered along the axis defined by needle portion (10), similar toblades (554, 556) described above. Furthermore, an additional blade maybe angularly separated relative to blade (704) by approximately 90degrees. In still other variations, a plurality of blades are includedwith blade (704). In any of these versions, additional blades may have awidth that is the same as or different from the width of blade (704).Similarly, an additional blade may have a width that is approximatelyequal to the diameter of cannula (12). Still other ways in which one ormore additional blades may be incorporated into tip (700) will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachingsherein.

In this example, blade (704) defines of angle of approximately 45degrees. Of course, any other angle or angles may be used. In addition,tip (700) of the present example is configured such that cut lengthproduced by tip (700) is greater than or equal to the perimeter orcircumference of cannula (12). It will be appreciated, however, that anyother suitable dimensions or relationships between cannula (12) and tip(700) dimensions may be used.

In some versions, blade (704) is integral and unitary with needle tip(700), such that blade (704) is formed as an integral and unitaryportion of cannula (12). In still other versions, blade (704) and needletip (700) are formed separately then joined together. Blade (704) may besecured to tip (700) using interlocking features, welding, adhesives, orany other suitable structures or techniques. Slots (not shown) or otherfeatures may be provided in blade (704) and/or tip (700) to accommodatetheir combination. Furthermore, tip (700) may be integrally andunitarily formed with cannula (12); or may be formed separately fromcannula (12) then secured to the distal end of cannula (12). Other waysin which tip (700) may be made will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art.

Other suitable configurations for a tissue piercing tip (14) or othercomponents of needle portion (10) will be apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

C. Exemplary Cannula Modifications

In addition to or in lieu of providing any of the various versions oftip (14) described herein, cannula (12) may be subject to variousmodifications. Such modifications may reduce the force that is requiredfor needle portion (10) to penetrate into tissue. One such modificationmay include applying a carbon or hydrophilic coating to the outersurface of cannula (12) and/or tip (14). Alternatively, any othercoating or treatment may be applied to cannula (12) and/or tip (14).Several additional modifications will be described in greater detailbelow, while others will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart in view of the teachings herein.

One merely illustrative modified cannula (750) is shown in FIG. 19. Inthis example, cannula (750) is subject to shot peening, which results ina plurality of dimples (752) being formed in cannula (12). It will beappreciated that, in some contexts, a cannula (12) that has a smoothelectropolished outside surface may exhibit some degree of adherence totissue as it penetrates the tissue. Such adherence may result in arelatively increased force that is required for a needle portion (10)that has such a cannula (12) to penetrate the tissue. By contrast,dimples (752) may reduce such a drag effect (e.g., by reducing thecontact surface), such that modified cannula (750) requires relativelyless force for needle portion (10) to penetrate tissue. Dimples (752)may be provided along any suitable length of cannula (750).

Shot peening of cannula (750) may be accomplished using a variety ofmedia or techniques. By way of example only, the outer surface ofcannula (750) may be shot peened with small spherical media (e.g.,beads, etc.), such as sand, metal, glass, or any other suitablematerial, including combinations of material. Alternatively, dimples(752) may be produced using any other suitable process. Furthermore,cannula (750) may be roughened without necessarily resulting in dimples.Other ways in which a cannula (750) may be treated will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Another merely illustrative modified cannula (760) is shown in FIG. 20.In this example, cannula (760) has a plurality of scallops (762) formedtherein. Scallops (762) may be formed using a variety of processes,including but not limited to cutting or grinding. Similar to dimples(752), scallops (762) may reduce the force that is required for a needleportion (10) having such a cannula (760) to penetrate tissue (e.g., byreducing the contact surface). Scallops (762) may be provided along anysuitable length of cannula (760), and may have any suitable spacing andconfiguration.

Yet another merely illustrative modified cannula (770) is shown in FIG.21. In this example, cannula (770) has a plurality of longitudinalgrooves (772) formed therein. Grooves (772) may be formed using avariety of processes, including but not limited to cutting or grinding.Similar to dimples (752) and scallops (762), grooves (772) may reducethe force that is required for a needle portion (10) having such acannula (770) to penetrate tissue (e.g., by reducing the contactsurface). Grooves (772) may extend along any suitable length of cannula(770), and may have any suitable spacing and configuration. Grooves(772) may also be formed in any suitable orientation(s) (e.g.,orientations other than longitudinal).

D. Exemplary Cutter

A hollow cutter (not shown) is disposed within the cannula lumen ofcannula (20). The interior of the cutter defines a cutter lumen, suchthat fluid and tissue may be communicated through the cutter via thecutter lumen. The cutter is configured to rotate within the cannulalumen and translate axially within the cannula lumen. Suitablemechanisms that may be provided for causing the cutter to rotate andtranslate are disclosed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser.No. 11/942,764, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum TimingAlgorithm for Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein; while other suitable mechanisms will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Thecutter may be configured to sever a biopsy sample from tissue protrudingthrough transverse aperture (16) of outer cannula (12). The cutter isfurther configured to permit severed tissue samples to be communicatedproximally through the cutter lumen. Merely illustrative examples ofsuch severing and proximal communication are described in U.S. Pat. No.5,526,822, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein,though any other suitable structures or techniques may be used forsevering and/or communicating tissue samples within a biopsy system (2).

In addition, suitable components of, structures for, relationshipsbetween, and configurations for cannula (20) and a cutter are disclosedin U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 11/942,764, filedNov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithm for Biopsy Device,”the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Of course,any other suitable components, structures, or configurations may beused.

E. Exemplary Needle Hub

As shown in FIGS. 1-2, a needle hub (60) is secured to outer cannula(12), and comprises a thumbwheel (62) and a sleeve portion (64)extending proximally from thumbwheel (62). Needle hub (60) of thepresent example is overmolded about a proximal portion of outer cannula(12), though needle hub (60) may be formed and/or secured relative toouter cannula (12) using any other suitable techniques (e.g., setscrews, adhesives, etc.). Furthermore, while needle hub (60) of thepresent example is formed of a plastic material, any other suitablematerial or combination of materials may be used.

Needle hub (60) may include an interior portion that is in fluidcommunication with the vacuum lumen of outer cannula (12). Needle hub(60) may further be in fluid communication with a manifold (not shown)that is in further communication with either or both of tubes (402,404). Suitable ways in which needle hub (60) may be in fluidcommunication with a lumen in outer cannula (12) are disclosed in U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 11/942,764, filed Nov. 20,2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithm for Biopsy Device,” thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Of course, anyother suitable components, structures, or configurations may be used.

Thumbwheel (62) is operable to rotate outer cannula (12) about itslongitudinal axis, relative to cover member (114) and base member (116).For instance, thumbwheel (62) may be used to orient aperture (16) to anumber of desired orientations about the longitudinal axis defined byouter cannula (12). Such multiple orientations may be desirable, by wayof example only, to obtain a plurality of tissue samples from a biopsysite, without requiring the needle portion (10) to be removed from thepatient during the acquisition of such a plurality of tissue samples. Anillustrative example of such rotation and acquisition of multiple tissuesamples is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,822, the disclosure of whichis incorporated by reference herein. Other ways in which multiple tissuesamples may be obtained at various locations will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Forinstance, rotation of outer cannula (12) may be motorized or automated.As another non-exhaustive example, an entire biopsy device (100) may berotated during acquisition of tissue samples, without necessarilyremoving biopsy device (100) from the patient during such rotation andtissue sample acquisition, to obtain tissue samples from variousorientations about the longitudinal axis defined by outer cannula (12).

F. Exemplary Tissue Sample Holder

In the present example, a tissue sample holder (140) is provided at theend of body portion (112) of probe (102). Tissue sample holder (140)comprises a cup (142), a rotatable manifold (not shown), and a pluralityof removable sample trays (not shown) with a plurality of tissue samplechambers (not shown). Each tissue sample chamber is configured toseparately hold a tissue sample communicated proximally through thecutter lumen, such that tissue sample holder (140) may separately hold aplurality of tissue samples. In particular, the manifold is configuredto rotate to selectively index a tissue sample chamber relative to thecutter lumen. Manifold is further configured to communicate a vacuumfrom tube (404) to the cutter lumen, regardless of which tissue samplechamber is indexed relative to the cutter lumen. Suitable components andstructures for and methods of operating a tissue sample holder (140) aredisclosed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.11/942,764, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithmfor Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. Of course, any other suitable components, structures, orconfigurations may be used.

II. Exemplary Holster for Stereotactic Use

As shown in FIGS. 1-2, a holster (202) comprises a top cover (204),through which a portion of each of gears (206, 208) is exposed, and sidepanels (214). Holster (202) of this example further comprises a needlerotation mechanism (not shown), a needle firing mechanism (240), acutter drive mechanism (not shown), and a tissue holder rotationmechanism (not shown). The cutter drive mechanism is operable to causethe cutter to rotate and translate; while the tissue holder rotationmechanism is operable to cause at least a portion of the tissue sampleholder (140) to rotate. Suitable components and structures that may beused to provide a cutter drive mechanism and a tissue holder rotationmechanism are disclosed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser.No. 11/942,764, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum TimingAlgorithm for Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. Of course, any other suitable components, structures,or configurations may be used. Alternatively, either or both of a cutterdrive mechanism or a tissue holder rotation mechanism may simply beomitted altogether.

As noted above, holster (202) of the present example is configured to becoupled with a biopsy probe (102), such as biopsy probe (102) describedabove, to provide a biopsy device (100). In addition, holster (202) isconfigured to be mounted to a table, fixture, or other device, such asfor use in a stereotactic or X-ray setting. However, it will beappreciated in view of the disclosure herein that holster (202) may beused in a variety of other settings and combinations.

A. Exemplary Needle Rotation Mechanism

In the present example, the needle rotation mechanism comprises a pairof knobs (222). Rotation of one or both of knobs (222) will result inrotation of gear (206). Furthermore, when biopsy probe (102) is coupledwith holster (202), gear (206) will mesh with a gear (not shown) ofprobe (102). Thus, when biopsy probe (102) is coupled with holster(202), rotation of one or both of knobs (222) will cause needle portion(10) of biopsy probe (102) to rotate. Suitable structures and componentsthat may form a needle rotation mechanism are disclosed in U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 11/942,764, filed Nov. 20,2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithm for Biopsy Device,” thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Of course, anyother suitable components, structures, or configurations may be used. Byway of example only, a motor (not shown) may be used to effect rotationof needle portion (10). In other versions, a needle rotation mechanismmay simply be omitted altogether.

B. Exemplary Needle Firing Mechanism

As shown in FIG. 16, needle firing mechanism (240) of the presentexample comprises a pair of triggers (242), buttons (244), a firing rod(248), and a fork (250). Fork (250) is configured to engage sleeveportion (64) of needle hub (60) when biopsy probe (102) is coupled withholster (202). For instance, fork (250) may engage sleeve portion (64)between thumbwheel (62) and an annular projection (66). In the presentexample, engagement between fork (250) and sleeve portion (64) is suchthat sleeve portion (64) (and therefore, needle portion (10)) willtranslate longitudinally with fork (250). Fork (250) is coupled with afiring rod (248), such that fork (250) will translate longitudinallywith firing rod (248).

As shown in FIG. 22, needle firing mechanism (240) of the presentexample further comprises a linear motor (800), which is communicativelycoupled with firing rod (248). In some versions, firing rod (248)extends directly from linear motor (800). In other versions, one or morecomponents (not shown) are provided between linear motor (800) andfiring rod (248). For instance, a variety of gears, transmissioncomponents, etc. may be provided between linear motor (800) and firingrod (248). Suitable structures, components and configurations forproviding communication from linear motor (800) to firing rod (248) willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of theteachings herein.

In some versions, linear motor (800) comprises a brushless DC linearmotor.

Alternatively, any other suitable type of electric linear motor may beused. In other versions, linear motor (800) comprises a pneumatic motor.For instance, such a pneumatic motor may or may not include a pneumaticcylinder, a piston, and/or a variety of other components. Of course, anyother type of linear motor may be used—electric, pneumatic, orotherwise.

It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art in view ofthe teachings herein that linear motor (800) may be selectivelycontrolled with respect to a variety of parameters. For instance, a usermay control the depth, acceleration, force, and/or velocity with whichlinear motor (800) actuates to fire needle portion (10) into tissue. Inother words, a controller (not shown) may be used to control thevelocity profile, position profile, and stopping point of linear motor(800), among other parameters associated with operation of linear motor(800). Particularly where a linear motor (800) of relatively high peakforce is provided, a large envelope of velocity and position profilesmay be available.

In some versions, a user may select a longitudinal position to whichneedle firing mechanism (240) should fire tip (14) or aperture (16) ofneedle portion (10). With such a longitudinal position being set beforefiring of needle portion (10), linear motor (800) may be activated tofire needle portion (10) accordingly, stopping needle portion (10) atthe preselected position or distance. Needle portion (10) may benoiselessly brought to a stop through electromagnetic action, ratherthan by a mechanical stop. Alternatively, mechanical assistance may beprovided for bringing needle portion (10) to a stop (e.g., a brakemechanism, etc.). Excess kinetic energy of needle portion (10) maysilently be converted into heat. Pre-programmed velocity and positionprofiles may be maintained independently of the tissue or tumorcharacteristics. In other words, in some versions, acceleration ofneedle portion (10) may be controlled such that it does not exceed arate that is greater than required to follow the desired position andvelocity profiles.

Furthermore, with linear motor (800) being used to fire needle portion(10) into tissue, needle firing mechanism (240) may lack a spring orother resilient member for firing needle portion (10) into tissue. Theabsence of a spring or other resilient member may provide relativelyquiet operation of needle firing mechanism (240), which may make abiopsy sample acquisition sequence less alarming to a patient in somesettings. Alternatively, linear motor (800) may be assisted by a springor other resilient member, with respect to either or both of distal orproximal translation of firing rod (248).

When a user is ready to fire needle portion (10), the user may push andhold one or both of triggers (242) forward, and may push one or bothbuttons (244) in while one or both of triggers (242) are held forward.Such actuation of trigger(s) (242) and button(s) (244) may cause firingof needle portion (10). In particular, Such actuation of trigger(s)(242) and button(s) (244) may activate motor (800) to translate firingrod (248) distally, which may effect firing of needle portion (10)distally into tissue. Such distal motion of needle portion (10) may berelatively sudden, and may be performed with a force sufficient topenetrate tissue with tip (14) of needle portion (10).

In other variations, a linear motor (800) is used to fire an entireholster (202).

In still other variations, needle firing mechanism (240) lacks a linearmotor (800) altogether. For instance, needle firing mechanism (240) maycomprise one of the needle firing mechanisms disclosed in U.S. Pub. No.2007/0032742, entitled “Biopsy Device with Vacuum Assisted BleedingControl,” published Feb. 8, 2007, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein. Still other suitable components andconfigurations for a needle firing mechanism (240) will be apparent tothose of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein, tothe extent that a needle firing mechanism (240) is used at all.

III. Exemplary Probe for Ultrasound Use

As shown in FIGS. 3-5, an alternative biopsy probe (103) comprises aneedle portion (350) and a body portion (352). Body portion (352)comprises a cover member (354) and a base member (356). A tissue sampleholder (368) is removably secured to base member (356), though tissuesample holder (368) may alternatively be secured to cover member (354)or some other component. A pair of tubes (402, 404) are coupled withprobe (103). As will also be described in greater detail below, and asnoted above, biopsy probe (103) is configured to be coupled with aholster (302) to provide a biopsy device (101).

A. Exemplary Needle

In the present example, needle portion (350) comprises an outer cannula(12) having a tissue piercing tip (14) and a transverse tissue receivingaperture (16) located proximally from the tissue piercing tip (14). Inthis example, these components are essentially the same as thecomponents bearing the same names and item numbers described above, sothey will not be described in greater detail here. In other words, thefeatures, properties, and components of outer cannula (12), tip (14),and aperture (16) as described above (including cannula lumen (20),vacuum lumen (40), wall (30), transverse openings (32), etc.) may be thesame for needle portion (350) as they were described above with respectto needle portion (10). Of course, they may alternatively be varied inany suitable way, as desired.

B. Exemplary Tissue Piercing Tips

In some instances, those of ordinary skill in the art may find some ofthe various needle tips (14) that are disclosed herein as beingparticularly useful in probe (103). For instance, probe (103) mayinclude any of the various tips described herein, such as thosedescribed with reference to FIGS. 6-18. Similarly, cannula (12) of probe(103) may be subject to any of the treatments or modifications describedherein, such as those described with reference to FIGS. 19-21. As notedpreviously, such variations, treatments, and modifications of tip (14)and cannula (12) may facilitate penetration of needle portion (350) intotissue, such as by reducing the force that is required to penetratetissue when compared to other tips (14) and cannulas (12). Such reducedforce to penetrate may be particularly useful in the context of probe inthe present example (103), as probe (103) is manipulated by a singlehand of a user in some illustrative uses. In other words, biopsy device(101) may be grasped by a single hand of a user, and the user may insertneedle portion (350) into tissue by using the single hand graspingbiopsy device (101). Alternatively, biopsy device (101) may be used in avariety of other ways.

C. Exemplary Cutter

A hollow cutter in probe (103) may have the same relationship withneedle portion (350) as the relationship described above between thecutter and needle portion (10); as well as all the same features,properties, and components as the cutter described above in the contextof probe (102). Such aspects of the cutter will therefore not berepeated here. Alternatively, a cutter used with either probe (102, 103)may have any other features, properties, components, or relationshipswith needle portion (10) as desired.

D. Exemplary Needle Hub

As shown in FIGS. 3-5, a needle hub (358) is secured to outer cannula(12) of probe (103), and comprises a thumbwheel (62) and a sleeveportion (360) extending proximally from thumbwheel (62). Needle hub(358) of the present example is overmolded about a proximal portion ofouter cannula (12), though needle hub (358) may be formed and/or securedrelative to outer cannula (12) using any other suitable techniques(e.g., set screws, etc.). Furthermore, while needle hub (358) of thepresent example is formed of a plastic material, any other suitablematerial or combination of materials may be used.

Needle hub (358) may include an interior portion that is in fluidcommunication with the vacuum lumen of outer cannula (12). Needle hub(358) may further be in fluid communication with a manifold (not shown)that is in further communication with either or both of tubes (402,404). Suitable ways in which needle hub (358) may be in fluidcommunication with a lumen in outer cannula (12) are disclosed in U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 11/942,764, filed Nov. 20,2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithm for Biopsy Device,” thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. Of course, anyother suitable components, structures, or configurations may be used.

Thumbwheel (62) of sleeve portion (360) is essentially the same as, andmay be operated in a manner similar to, thumbwheel (62) of sleeveportion (64) of probe (102) described above. Thumbwheel (62) willtherefore not be discussed in any greater detail here. Of course,thumbwheel (62) may alternatively be varied in any suitable way, asdesired, if not omitted altogether, in the case of either probe (102,103).

E. Exemplary Tissue Sample Holder

In addition, a tissue sample holder (368) of probe (103) may be the sameas or similar to tissue sample holder (140) described above.Alternatively, tissue sample holder (368) may include any tissue sampleholder described in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.11/942,764, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithmfor Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. Of course, any other suitable components, structures, orconfigurations may be used for tissue sample holder (368), to the extentthat any tissue sample holder is used at all.

IV. Exemplary Holster for Ultrasound Use

As shown in FIGS. 3-4, an alternative holster (302) comprises a tophousing member (304), through which a portion of each of gears (206,208) is exposed, and a bottom housing member (306). A plurality of hookmembers (305) extend from top housing member (304) for selectivelysecuring probe (103) to holster (302), though other structures ortechniques may be used. Holster (302) of this example further comprisesa cutter drive mechanism (not shown) and a tissue holder rotationmechanism (not shown). Suitable components and structures that may beused to provide a cutter drive mechanism and a tissue holder rotationmechanism are disclosed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser.No. 11/942,764, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum TimingAlgorithm for Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein. Of course, any other suitable components, structures,or configurations may be used. Alternatively, either or both of a cutterdrive mechanism or a tissue holder rotation mechanism may simply beomitted altogether.

Holster (302) may include a user interface that permits a user to entercommands to operate at least a portion of biopsy device (101). Suitableuser interfaces that may be so incorporated into holster (302) aredisclosed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.11/942,764, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithmfor Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. Of course, any other suitable components, structures, orconfigurations may be used. Alternatively, holster (302) may simply lacka user interface altogether.

Holster (302) of the present example is configured to be coupled with abiopsy probe (103), such as biopsy probe (103) described above, toprovide a biopsy device (101). In addition, holster (302) is configuredto be handheld, such that biopsy device (101) may be manipulated andoperated by a single hand of a user (e.g., using ultrasound guidance,etc.). However, it will be appreciated in view of the disclosure hereinthat holster (302) may be used in a variety of other settings andcombinations. By way of example only, holster (302) may alternatively becoupled with biopsy probe (102) instead of biopsy probe (103). Asanother merely illustrative example, holster (302) may be coupled with avariation of biopsy probe (102) that has a modified needle hub (60)(e.g., a needle hub (60) that is shorter, not configured for firingneedle portion (10), etc.).

Either biopsy device (100, 101) may be coupled with a vacuum controlmodule (not shown) that is operable to provide fluids (e.g., vacuum,atmospheric air, saline, pressurized air, etc.), power, and/or commandsto biopsy device (100, 101). Suitable examples of such a vacuum controlmodule are disclosed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.11/942,764, filed Nov. 20, 2007, and entitled “Vacuum Timing Algorithmfor Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by referenceherein. Of course, any other suitable components, structures, orconfigurations may be used.

Alternatively, biopsy device (100, 101) may be provided and used withouta vacuum control module. By way of example only, biopsy device (100,101) may have an on-board vacuum pump (not shown) and/or pressure pump(not shown). Merely exemplary biopsy devices with such on-board pumpsare disclosed in U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.11/965,048, filed Dec. 27, 2007, entitled “Vacuum Sensor and PressurePump for Tetherless Biopsy Device,” the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference herein; and in U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 11/964,811, filed Dec. 27, 2007, entitled “Clutchand Valving System for Tetherless Biopsy Device,” the disclosure ofwhich is incorporated by reference herein. Again, though, any othersuitable components, structures, or configurations may be used.

Embodiments of the present invention have application in conventionalendoscopic and open surgical instrumentation as well as application inrobotic-assisted surgery.

Embodiments of the devices disclosed herein can be designed to bedisposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be usedmultiple times. Embodiments may, in either or both cases, bereconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning mayinclude any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device,followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequentreassembly. In particular, embodiments of the device may bedisassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of thedevice may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Uponcleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, embodiments of thedevice may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioningfacility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgicalprocedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioningof a device may utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly,cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and theresulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the presentapplication.

By way of example only, embodiments described herein may be processedbefore surgery. First, a new or used instrument may be obtained and ifnecessary cleaned. The instrument may then be sterilized. In onesterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed an sealedcontainer, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrumentmay then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate thecontainer, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons.The radiation may kill bacteria on the instrument and in the container.The sterilized instrument may then be stored in the sterile container.The sealed container may keep the instrument sterile until it is openedin a medical facility. A device may also be sterilized using any othertechnique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gammaradiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention,further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may beaccomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill inthe art without departing from the scope of the present invention.Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and otherswill be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, theexamples, embodiments, geometrics, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps,and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required.Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered interms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to thedetails of structure and operation shown and described in thespecification and drawings.

What is claimed is:
 1. A biopsy probe, wherein the biopsy probecomprises: (a) a body portion; (b) a cannula extending from the bodyportion, wherein the cannula defines at least one lumen, wherein thecannula comprises a transverse aperture configured to receive tissue;(c) a tip located at the distal end of the cannula; (d) a first bladeextending longitudinally from the tip; (e) a second blade extendinglongitudinally from the tip; and (f) a cutter configured to translaterelative to the cannula, wherein the cutter is configured to severtissue.
 2. The biopsy probe of claim 1, wherein the tip comprises atleast two concave surfaces.
 3. The biopsy probe of claim 2, wherein theat least two concave surfaces are formed by a hollow grind process, suchthat the at least two concave surfaces are hollow ground.
 4. The biopsyprobe of claim 2, wherein the first blade bisects at least one of the atleast two concave surfaces.
 5. The biopsy probe of claim 2, wherein theat least two concave surfaces comprise four concave surfaces.
 6. Thebiopsy probe of claim 2, wherein the at least two concave surfaces areadjoined at sharp edges, wherein the cannula has an outer perimeterlength about an axis defined by the cannula, wherein each of the sharpedges has a length that is greater than or approximately equal to theperimeter length of the cannula.
 7. The biopsy probe of claim 1, whereinthe tip is formed separately from and joined with the cannula.
 8. Thebiopsy probe of claim 1, wherein the first blade and the second bladeare angularly offset by approximately 90 degrees.
 9. The biopsy probe ofclaim 1, wherein the first blade has a first length, wherein the secondblade has a second length, wherein the first length is greater than thesecond length.
 10. The biopsy probe of claim 1, wherein the first bladedistally terminates at a first distal point at a first axial positionrelative to the cannula, wherein the second blade distally terminates ata second distal point at a second axial position relative to thecannula, wherein the first distal point is distal to the second distalpoint.
 11. The biopsy probe of claim 1, wherein the first blade has apair of edges converging at a distal point.
 12. The biopsy probe ofclaim 1, wherein the first blade has a convexly curved distal edge. 13.The biopsy probe of claim 1, wherein the tip and first blade areconfigured to produce a transverse length of cut in tissue, wherein thecannula has an outer perimeter length about an axis defined by thecannula, wherein length of cut is greater than or approximately equal tothe perimeter length of the cannula.
 14. The biopsy probe of claim 1,wherein the first blade is integrally formed with the tip.
 15. Thebiopsy probe of claim 1, wherein the first blade is formed separatelyfrom and joined with the tip.
 16. The biopsy probe of claim 1, whereinthe tip further comprises a head, wherein the cannula has a cannuladiameter, wherein the head has a head diameter, wherein the headdiameter is greater than the cannula diameter.
 17. The biopsy probe ofclaim 1, wherein the cannula comprises a plurality of recesses formedtherein, wherein the recesses comprise one or more of dimples, scallops,or elongate grooves.
 18. The biopsy probe of claim 1, further comprisinga linear motor, wherein the linear motor is operable to controllablyfire the cannula distally relative to the body portion.
 19. A biopsyprobe, wherein the biopsy probe comprises: (a) a body portion; (b) acannula extending from the body portion, wherein the cannula defines atleast one lumen, wherein the cannula comprises a transverse apertureconfigured to receive tissue, wherein the cannula comprises a pluralityof recesses formed therein, wherein the recesses comprise one or more ofdimples, scallops, or elongate grooves; (c) a tissue piercing tiplocated at the distal end of the cannula, wherein the recesses in thecannula are proximal to the tip; and (d) a cutter configured totranslate relative to the cannula, wherein the cutter is configured tosever tissue.
 20. A biopsy probe, wherein the biopsy probe comprises:(a) a body portion; (b) a cannula extending from the body portion,wherein the cannula defines at least one lumen, wherein the cannulacomprises a transverse aperture configured to receive tissue, whereinthe cannula has a first diameter; (c) a tip located at the distal end ofthe cannula; (d) a blade extending longitudinally from the tip, whereinthe blade has a width, wherein the width of the blade is greater thanthe first diameter of the cannula; and (e) a cutter configured totranslate relative to the cannula, wherein the cutter is configured tosever tissue.